Fetterman, McCormick introduce bill targeting lanternflies
Pennsylvania senators are trying to stop the spread of the invasive spotted lanternfly.
John Fetterman and Dave McCormick are joining up to introduce the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act.
The bipartisan bill would designate the invasive insect as a high-priority research initiative for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture by amending an existing 1990 agriculture law.
If passed, it would give out federal grants to develop and distribute research-based tools and treatments that would target lanternflies.
The legislation comes as the species continues to threaten the national agricultural economy, with particular impact on Pennsylvania.
Fetterman’s office says the spotted lanternfly could cost the state $324 million annually if the population is not contained.
In 2023, Fetterman originally partnered with then-Senator Bob Casey to introduce the bill.
“I relish stomping on them, personally. They have a satisfying crunch when they go. Anecdotally, they seem like they really are starting to spread even more and more in Pennsylvania. A couple of years ago, I never would have seen one in western Pennsylvania and now I see them much more, just a few years later,” said Fetterman.
About the bug
The lanternfly was first discovered here in the United States just a quick drive away from the Susquehanna Valley.
In 2014, it’s believed the eggs of the bug arrived on a stone shipment to Berks County.
Since then, it’s been detected in every county in Pennsylvania and 18 other states, going as far west as Iowa.
According to Penn State Extension of the College of Agricultural Studies, the life cycle of a spotted lanternfly begins between October and June when the eggs are laid.
They begin to hatch as early as May.